Chapter 11: Kudzu Jesus-1986 Summary

Hassel

Tom is depressed and still drinking. His bishop is going to visit and he is worried about having only a one person mass. Hassel says there is a miracle. A tree nearby has kudzu (a type of vine) growing on it and the way it has grown has created the face of Jesus. Hassel gets a dozen people to agree to come to mass when the bishop visits. It would be a surprise for Tom. Everyone attends mass and the bishop is impressed. But Tom is overcome with guilt and confesses to the bishop that he is a liar and a terrible priest. The bishop hears his confession and absolves him but the two talk privately after the mass ends. Hassel prays that the Lord keep Tom safe.

Jackie

Jackie pours her heart out to Dillon about Tom. Dillon is certain that...